By Gran Chico | March 9, 2026
Brazilian football witnessed one of its most chaotic moments after Cruzeiro Esporte Clube defeated rivals Atlético Mineiro 1–0 in the Campeonato Mineiro Final, a match that ended in a massive brawl and a record-breaking 23 red cards.
The match, played at Mineirão Stadium, saw Cruzeiro secure their first state title since 2019.
Decisive Goal
After a tense and physical first half that ended goalless, Cruzeiro found the breakthrough in the 60th minute when forward Kaio Jorge headed in a precise cross to give his team the lead.
The goal proved decisive as Cruzeiro held on despite late pressure from Atlético Mineiro.
Cruzeiro, coached by former Brazil national team manager Tite, displayed discipline for most of the game before the dramatic final moments overshadowed their victory.
Mass Brawl in Stoppage Time
Chaos erupted in stoppage time when Atlético goalkeeper Everson collided with Cruzeiro midfielder Christian while chasing a loose ball.
Everson pushed Christian to the ground and placed his knee on the midfielder’s chest, prompting players from both sides to rush in. The confrontation quickly escalated into a violent melee lasting nearly three minutes.
Security personnel and military police were forced to intervene to restore order as players exchanged punches and kicks on the pitch.
Among those involved was former Brazil international Hulk, who was seen on camera punching an opponent, while former Atlético Madrid defender Renan Lodi was also caught up in the altercation.
Record-Breaking Red Cards
Referee Matheus Delgado Candançan did not immediately issue cards during the chaos due to the scale of the disorder. However, his official match report later confirmed an unprecedented 23 red cards issued retrospectively.
Twelve players from Cruzeiro were dismissed, including Kaio Jorge, Cássio, Fagner, Fabrício Bruno, João Marcelo, Lucas Villalba, Kauã Prates, Christian, Lucas Romero, Matheus Henrique, Wallace, and Gerson.
Atlético Mineiro had 11 players sent off, including Everson, Gabriel Delfim, Angelo Preciado, Lyanco, Ruan Tressoldi, Júnior Alonso, Renan Lodi, Alan Franco, Miguel Cassierra, Hulk, and Angelo Minda.
The incident shattered the previous Brazilian record of 22 red cards, set during a 1954 match between Portuguesa and Botafogo.
While Cruzeiro celebrated their long-awaited state championship, the dramatic scenes are expected to trigger disciplinary action from Brazilian football authorities and remain one of the most controversial matches in the country’s football history.
